The Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) is a cutting-edge institute addressing global public health challenges through research, translation into policy and education. ISGlobal has a broad portfolio in communicable and non-communicable diseases including environmental and climate determinants, and applies a multidisciplinary scientific approach ranging from the molecular to the population level. Research is organized in five programs: Climate, Air Pollution, Nature and Urban Health; Environment and Health over the Lifecourse; Global Viral and Bacterial Infections; Malaria and Neglected Parasitic Diseases and Maternal Child and Reproductive Health. ISGlobal is accredited with the Severo Ochoa distinction, a seal of excellence of the Spanish Science Ministry.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

ISGlobal is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic PhD candidate with a strong interest in translational cancer research, molecular pathology, and precision oncology. The successful applicant will join a multidisciplinary team investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying HPV-independent anogenital carcinomas, with the goal of developing clinically applicable prognostic biomarkers and risk prediction models integrating clinicopathological and transcriptomic data.

We are looking for a candidate with a Master's degree in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Bioinformatics, or a related discipline. The ideal candidate should be curious, proactive, and eager to develop expertise at the interface of pathology, molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, and clinical research. Excellent organizational and communication skills, the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, and proficiency in written and spoken English are essential.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct high-quality translational research focused on the molecular characterization and prognostic stratification of HPV-independent anogenital carcinomas.

• Contribute to the collection, integration, and analysis of clinicopathological, molecular, and transcriptomic data from retrospective and prospective patient cohorts.

• Contribute to transcriptomic and bioinformatic analyses, including statistical evaluation and integration of molecular and clinical datasets.

• Identify and validate prognostic biomarkers and molecular signatures with potential clinical application in precision oncology.

• Maintain accurate documentation of research activities, ensuring high standards of data quality, reproducibility, and research integrity.

• Present research findings at internal meetings, national and international scientific conferences, and contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

• Collaborate effectively with clinicians, pathologists, molecular biologists, and bioinformaticians within a multidisciplinary and international research environment.

• Contribute to the dissemination and translation of research findings into clinically applicable prognostic tools.

• Successfully complete the requirements of the PhD program at the University of Barcelona, including preparation and defense of the doctoral thesis.

AUXILIAR TASKS

This job description reflects the present requirements of the post but may evolve at any time in the future as duties and responsibilities change and/or develop providing there is appropriate consultation with the post-holder.

This job description is not a definitive or exhaustive list of responsibilities but identifies the key responsibilities and tasks of the post holder. The specific objectives of the post holder will be subject to review as part of the individual professional assessment process.

SKILLS

• Teamwork.

• Problem resolution.

• Learning capacity.

The post holder will adhere to ISGlobal principles contained in People management policy, including Equity, diversity and health safety. The post holder will respect, and be accountable to ensure ISGlobal policies and procedures.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Bioinformatics, or a related discipline.

• Basic knowledge of molecular biology techniques and/or cancer biology.

• Basic proficiency in statistical analysis using R and/or Python.

• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.

• Excellent written and spoken English.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• Proven ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with pathologists, molecular biologists, clinicians, bioinformaticians, and translational cancer researchers.

• Strong motivation to pursue a PhD in translational cancer research, with a particular interest in molecular pathology, cancer genomics, and precision oncology.

• Ability to integrate clinicopathological, molecular, and transcriptomic data to address clinically relevant research questions.

• Capacity to work independently, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and meet project deadlines while maintaining high scientific standards.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to critically interpret experimental and clinical data.

• Willingness to acquire new laboratory and computational skills, including molecular techniques, transcriptomic analyses, and statistical approaches.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present scientific results clearly to multidisciplinary audiences through meetings, publications, and conferences.

• Demonstrated attention to detail, scientific rigor, and commitment to reproducible and high-quality research.

• Ability to contribute proactively to collaborative research projects and participate in national and international scientific collaborations.

• High level of motivation, initiative, and enthusiasm for developing an academic career in cancer research.

LANGUAGE LEVEL

• Proficiency in English, and Spanish.

CONDITIONS

• Contract: 3 years, full time

• Salary: 28.298€ gross annual

• Work-Life Balance: 36 days off per year (23 vacation days + 13 personal days)

• Start date: September 2026

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants must complete the application form and upload a CV and a Cover Letter. Each document must be clearly named with the candidate’s name and surname.

Applications will remain open until 14th of August.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates may be contacted and interviewed as applications are received. Interviews may take place during the application period.

We encourage diverse applications, including but not limited to gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, physical abilities, and political beliefs.

SELECTION PROCESS

The selection process is designed in two phases:
1- Interview phase of a technical nature, with the team that requires the incorporation. To assess the person's skills and CV.
2 - Meeting with HR with the finalist(s) to finish assessing the profile and discuss contractual and institutional issues.

If needed any technical test could be passed. A Psychological Competency Evaluation Test will be required for the structural or transversal positions.

In accordance with the OTM-R principles, a gender-balanced recruitment panel is formed for every vacancy at the beginning of the process. After reviewing the content of the applications, the panel will start the interviews, with at least one technical and one administrative interview. A profile questionnaire as well as a technical exercise may be required during the process.

In ISGlobal we are committed to maintaining and developing a work environment in which the values and principles of our organization are respected and equal opportunities between women and men be promoted in each of the areas in which we operate, not tolerating discrimination based on criteria such as age, gender, marital status, race, ethnicity, functional diversity, political leanings, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

We confirm our commitment towards the value of the diversity of our staff and student population and seek to promote peace, equity, diversity and inclusion as essential elements in contribution to improving health worldwide.